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Guide to Sustainable Spaces for Your Next Event
Companies are increasingly adopting sustainable practices, energy-efficient lighting and reusable products to reduce their carbon footprints and save costs. Their efforts benefit meeting planners considering the Washington metropolitan area, which is a destination that boasts multiple key industries and shares a common vision for a sustainable planet as the world’s first LEED Platinum city according to the U.S. Green Building Council. Check out the variety of sustainable spaces the city boasts in each quadrant. Northeast DC: Right Proper Brewing Company is run completely on solar power, producing almost all of the company’s consumed electricity. As part of their leadership’s focus on the local community and their Brookland neighbors, the independent craft brewery wanted to minimize its environmental impact. For a brewery, this means returning to the roots of brewing. Right Proper proudly says “our beer starts and ends with the sun.” The company also uses LED lights in the tasting rooms and production facilities and gives spent grain away for free to local farmers. DC Harvest is a beautiful local restaurant on H Street, perfect for a business meeting or gathering for up to 60 guests. The family-owned restaurant specifically sources products from local farms and vendors, offering one of the freshest farm-to-table meals in the District. Northwest DC: Set in historic Georgetown, the Four Seasons Hotel Washington, DC prides itself in its green initiatives, especially when booking events. Planners and attendees can “determine their shade of green” by choosing filtered water by the pitcher over plastic bottles, organic meal breaks and recycled notepads. The Forbes five-star hotel also gives attendees the option of adding extra plants for additional oxygenation and airport pickup via a hybrid sedan. The highly anticipated Eaton DC opening summer 2018 approaches sustainability from inside the hotel to the event spaces and beyond. Guestrooms feature natural and organic mattresses and bathroom amenities, while the rooftop houses an herb garden and wind turbine. The hotel employs an aerobic food waste decomposition system that eliminates food waste on-site. Ben’s Chili Bowl, located on U Street where some of mural artist Aniekan Udofia's beautiful alleyway murals live, runs on energy-efficient HPT8, reducing energy use by up to 50 percent in comparison to its original 60-year-old lighting. The Ben’s Chili Bowl location on H Street NE, which opened in 2015, also boasts efficient lighting, HVAC and Energy Star-certified appliances. Farmers Restaurant Group, the brand that runs Farmers & Distillers, Farmers Fishers Bakers and Founding Farmers, makes sustainability their mission and was named one of the “10 Most Sustainable Restaurants in America” by HuffPost. The brand has in-house recycling and composting programs that keep 90 percent of waste out of landfills and uses Energy Star qualified appliances and monitors, low-flow faucet aerators, refurbished-recycled materials in furniture and green cleaning products. The Walter E. Washington Convention Center is committed to reducing its carbon footprint and making a difference through its “Know the Code” color-coded recycling and waste minimization program. The program has helped the convention center take the lead on extensive recycling initiatives, along with its PepsiCo partnership that has installed “dream machines” surrounding the convention center to encourage beverage container recycling rates. Monumental Sports, the operator of Capital One Arena in Chinatown, recently embarked on a new solar project with OneEnergy Baker Point solar. Baker Point solar produces clean renewable energy for the arena, which is now operating using 25 percent solar energy. Southwest DC: The 100 percent wind-powered Mandarin Oriental is a proud partner of the Anacostia River Keepers, who offer a series of volunteer cleanups removing thousands of pounds of trash a year from the Anacostia. Mandarin Oriental also offers Anacostia River Keepers’ services to organizations that want to add sustainability and charity elements to their events. The new Wharf along the Southwest Waterfront has multiple green options. Choose from InterContinental Washington, DC - The Wharf or the dual-branded property featuring the Hyatt House and Canopy by Hilton, all of which offer a variety of sustainable meeting spaces with breathtaking waterfront views. Highlights of the development’s sustainability initiatives include more than 87 percent of material being diverted from landfill and disposal, flooring made from low VOC and hotel buildings comprised of recycled content. Audi Field is the new green home of Major League Soccer’s D.C. United. The 20,000-seat field, which opened in July 2018, is not only LEED Gold certified, but also a partner to Recycle Track Systems and New Columbia Solar. Recycle Track Systems is implementing food waste composting and staff training. There will be a short educational pregame video that is meant to teach fans how to recycle waste. In addition, solar panels in the venue are expected to offset the stadium’s electrical usage by one third. Southeast DC: Nationals Park is the nation’s first major professional stadium to become LEED Silver-certified. The project incorporates a variety of sustainable design elements including a brownfield redevelopment that is located near the Anacostia River, energy conserving light fixtures and an intricate water filtration system. District Winery is DC’s first winery, boasting 17,000 sq. feet in Capitol Riverfront and overlooking the Anacostia River. The vibrant waterfront venue has LED lighting, energy-efficient equipment and a green roof for storm water control. Northern Virginia: The National Conference Center in Leesburg, Va. is Green Seal™ GS-33 Silver and Virginia Green™ certified. The National continues to host eco-friendly events and sustainable meetings, taking proactive measures to save energy. As a member of the International Association of Conference Centers (IACC) and the winner of the 2010 Loudon Country Green Business Challenge, it is no surprise that green initiatives are a priority for the National Conference Center, which boasts 250,000 square feet of meeting space and 250 meeting rooms. Lansdowne Resort and Spa is committed to protecting the environment and conserving natural resources, as a Virginia Green Lodging facility. The resort sports high-efficiency LED lighting in all guest rooms, restaurants and public areas; bee hives that support vital bee populations and a certified Monarch Butterfly way station to help bolster the population of local Monarch butterflies; and all restaurants are committed to purchasing fresh and sustainable foods grown locally. Continue your exploration of one of the healthiest, greenest and most livable cities and plan your next green meeting or event in Washington, DC.
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As you return to traveling this year, Washington, DC should be at the very top of your list. The nation’s capital offers more than 100 free things to do, but it should come as no surprise that museums are some of the most popular attractions. We’ve gone into deep detail on four of the city’s most popular museums (including one dedicated to living animals), none of which charge admission. Find the latest updates on visiting museums, including Smithsonian's plans to have all of its museums open by the end of August 2021, mask mandates for all indoor museums and the latest ticketing requirements. Book your next vacation to the nation’s capital and visit these only-in-the-District museums, free of charge. In the heart of the nation’s capital lives a portal to wildlife from around the world. Smithsonian’s National Zoo offers a firsthand, family-friendly experience through a 163-acre urban park in the Woodley Park neighborhood teeming with roughly 2,700 animals that represent more than 390 species. The zoo is also connected to the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (a non-public facility located in Front Royal, Va.), a global effort to conserve species and train future conservationists. This focus on preserving endangered animals extends to the zoo, as one-fifth of its exhibited species fall into this category. In the heart of the nation’s capital lives a portal to wildlife from around the world. Smithsonian’s National Zoo offers a firsthand, family-friendly experience through a 163-acre urban park in the Woodley Park neighborhood teeming with roughly 2,700 animals that represent more than 390 species. The zoo is also connected to the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (a non-public facility located in Front Royal, Va.), a global effort to conserve species and train future conservationists. This focus on preserving endangered animals extends to the zoo, as one-fifth of its exhibited species fall into this category. In the heart of the nation’s capital lives a portal to wildlife from around the world. Smithsonian’s National Zoo offers a firsthand, family-friendly experience through a 163-acre urban park in the Woodley Park neighborhood teeming with roughly 2,700 animals that represent more than 390 species. The zoo is also connected to the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (a non-public facility located in Front Royal, Va.), a global effort to conserve species and train future conservationists. This focus on preserving endangered animals extends to the zoo, as one-fifth of its exhibited species fall into this category. In the heart of the nation’s capital lives a portal to wildlife from around the world. Smithsonian’s National Zoo offers a firsthand, family-friendly experience through a 163-acre urban park in the Woodley Park neighborhood teeming with roughly 2,700 animals that represent more than 390 species. The zoo is also connected to the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (a non-public facility located in Front Royal, Va.), a global effort to conserve species and train future conservationists. This focus on preserving endangered animals extends to the zoo, as one-fifth of its exhibited species fall into this category. In the heart of the nation’s capital lives a portal to wildlife from around the world. Smithsonian’s National Zoo offers a firsthand, family-friendly experience through a 163-acre urban park in the Woodley Park neighborhood teeming with roughly 2,700 animals that represent more than 390 species. The zoo is also connected to the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (a non-public facility located in Front Royal, Va.), a global effort to conserve species and train future conservationists. This focus on preserving endangered animals extends to the zoo, as one-fifth of its exhibited species fall into this category. In the heart of the nation’s capital lives a portal to wildlife from around the world. Smithsonian’s National Zoo offers a firsthand, family-friendly experience through a 163-acre urban park in the Woodley Park neighborhood teeming with roughly 2,700 animals that represent more than 390 species. The zoo is also connected to the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (a non-public facility located in Front Royal, Va.), a global effort to conserve species and train future conservationists. This focus on preserving endangered animals extends to the zoo, as one-fifth of its exhibited species fall into this category. In the heart of the nation’s capital lives a portal to wildlife from around the world. Smithsonian’s National Zoo offers a firsthand, family-friendly experience through a 163-acre urban park in the Woodley Park neighborhood teeming with roughly 2,700 animals that represent more than 390 species. The zoo is also connected to the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (a non-public facility located in Front Royal, Va.), a global effort to conserve species and train future conservationists. This focus on preserving endangered animals extends to the zoo, as one-fifth of its exhibited species fall into this category. In the heart of the nation’s capital lives a portal to wildlife from around the world. Smithsonian’s National Zoo offers a firsthand, family-friendly experience through a 163-acre urban park in the Woodley Park neighborhood teeming with roughly 2,700 animals that represent more than 390 species. The zoo is also connected to the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (a non-public facility located in Front Royal, Va.), a global effort to conserve species and train future conservationists. This focus on preserving endangered animals extends to the zoo, as one-fifth of its exhibited species fall into this category. In the heart of the nation’s capital lives a portal to wildlife from around the world. Smithsonian’s National Zoo offers a firsthand, family-friendly experience through a 163-acre urban park in the Woodley Park neighborhood teeming with roughly 2,700 animals that represent more than 390 species. The zoo is also connected to the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (a non-public facility located in Front Royal, Va.), a global effort to conserve species and train future conservationists. This focus on preserving endangered animals extends to the zoo, as one-fifth of its exhibited species fall into this category. In the heart of the nation’s capital lives a portal to wildlife from around the world. Smithsonian’s National Zoo offers a firsthand, family-friendly experience through a 163-acre urban park in the Woodley Park neighborhood teeming with roughly 2,700 animals that represent more than 390 species. The zoo is also connected to the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (a non-public facility located in Front Royal, Va.), a global effort to conserve species and train future conservationists. This focus on preserving endangered animals extends to the zoo, as one-fifth of its exhibited species fall into this category. In the heart of the nation’s capital lives a portal to wildlife from around the world. Smithsonian’s National Zoo offers a firsthand, family-friendly experience through a 163-acre urban park in the Woodley Park neighborhood teeming with roughly 2,700 animals that represent more than 390 species. The zoo is also connected to the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (a non-public facility located in Front Royal, Va.), a global effort to conserve species and train future conservationists. This focus on preserving endangered animals extends to the zoo, as one-fifth of its exhibited species fall into this category. In the heart of the nation’s capital lives a portal to wildlife from around the world. Smithsonian’s National Zoo offers a firsthand, family-friendly experience through a 163-acre urban park in the Woodley Park neighborhood teeming with roughly 2,700 animals that represent more than 390 species. The zoo is also connected to the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (a non-public facility located in Front Royal, Va.), a global effort to conserve species and train future conservationists. This focus on preserving endangered animals extends to the zoo, as one-fifth of its exhibited species fall into this category. In the heart of the nation’s capital lives a portal to wildlife from around the world. Smithsonian’s National Zoo offers a firsthand, family-friendly experience through a 163-acre urban park in the Woodley Park neighborhood teeming with roughly 2,700 animals that represent more than 390 species. The zoo is also connected to the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (a non-public facility located in Front Royal, Va.), a global effort to conserve species and train future conservationists. This focus on preserving endangered animals extends to the zoo, as one-fifth of its exhibited species fall into this category. In the heart of the nation’s capital lives a portal to wildlife from around the world. Smithsonian’s National Zoo offers a firsthand, family-friendly experience through a 163-acre urban park in the Woodley Park neighborhood teeming with roughly 2,700 animals that represent more than 390 species. The zoo is also connected to the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (a non-public facility located in Front Royal, Va.), a global effort to conserve species and train future conservationists. This focus on preserving endangered animals extends to the zoo, as one-fifth of its exhibited species fall into this category. In the heart of the nation’s capital lives a portal to wildlife from around the world. Smithsonian’s National Zoo offers a firsthand, family-friendly experience through a 163-acre urban park in the Woodley Park neighborhood teeming with roughly 2,700 animals that represent more than 390 species. The zoo is also connected to the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (a non-public facility located in Front Royal, Va.), a global effort to conserve species and train future conservationists. This focus on preserving endangered animals extends to the zoo, as one-fifth of its exhibited species fall into this category. In the heart of the nation’s capital lives a portal to wildlife from around the world. Smithsonian’s National Zoo offers a firsthand, family-friendly experience through a 163-acre urban park in the Woodley Park neighborhood teeming with roughly 2,700 animals that represent more than 390 species. The zoo is also connected to the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (a non-public facility located in Front Royal, Va.), a global effort to conserve species and train future conservationists. This focus on preserving endangered animals extends to the zoo, as one-fifth of its exhibited species fall into this category. In the heart of the nation’s capital lives a portal to wildlife from around the world. Smithsonian’s National Zoo offers a firsthand, family-friendly experience through a 163-acre urban park in the Woodley Park neighborhood teeming with roughly 2,700 animals that represent more than 390 species. The zoo is also connected to the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (a non-public facility located in Front Royal, Va.), a global effort to conserve species and train future conservationists. This focus on preserving endangered animals extends to the zoo, as one-fifth of its exhibited species fall into this category. In the heart of the nation’s capital lives a portal to wildlife from around the world. Smithsonian’s National Zoo offers a firsthand, family-friendly experience through a 163-acre urban park in the Woodley Park neighborhood teeming with roughly 2,700 animals that represent more than 390 species. The zoo is also connected to the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (a non-public facility located in Front Royal, Va.), a global effort to conserve species and train future conservationists. This focus on preserving endangered animals extends to the zoo, as one-fifth of its exhibited species fall into this category. In the heart of the nation’s capital lives a portal to wildlife from around the world. Smithsonian’s National Zoo offers a firsthand, family-friendly experience through a 163-acre urban park in the Woodley Park neighborhood teeming with roughly 2,700 animals that represent more than 390 species. The zoo is also connected to the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (a non-public facility located in Front Royal, Va.), a global effort to conserve species and train future conservationists. This focus on preserving endangered animals extends to the zoo, as one-fifth of its exhibited species fall into this category. In the heart of the nation’s capital lives a portal to wildlife from around the world. Smithsonian’s National Zoo offers a firsthand, family-friendly experience through a 163-acre urban park in the Woodley Park neighborhood teeming with roughly 2,700 animals that represent more than 390 species. The zoo is also connected to the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (a non-public facility located in Front Royal, Va.), a global effort to conserve species and train future conservationists. This focus on preserving endangered animals extends to the zoo, as one-fifth of its exhibited species fall into this category. In the heart of the nation’s capital lives a portal to wildlife from around the world. Smithsonian’s National Zoo offers a firsthand, family-friendly experience through a 163-acre urban park in the Woodley Park neighborhood teeming with roughly 2,700 animals that represent more than 390 species. The zoo is also connected to the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (a non-public facility located in Front Royal, Va.), a global effort to conserve species and train future conservationists. This focus on preserving endangered animals extends to the zoo, as one-fifth of its exhibited species fall into this category. In the heart of the nation’s capital lives a portal to wildlife from around the world. Smithsonian’s National Zoo offers a firsthand, family-friendly experience through a 163-acre urban park in the Woodley Park neighborhood teeming with roughly 2,700 animals that represent more than 390 species. The zoo is also connected to the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (a non-public facility located in Front Royal, Va.), a global effort to conserve species and train future conservationists. This focus on preserving endangered animals extends to the zoo, as one-fifth of its exhibited species fall into this category. In the heart of the nation’s capital lives a portal to wildlife from around the world. Smithsonian’s National Zoo offers a firsthand, family-friendly experience through a 163-acre urban park in the Woodley Park neighborhood teeming with roughly 2,700 animals that represent more than 390 species. The zoo is also connected to the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (a non-public facility located in Front Royal, Va.), a global effort to conserve species and train future conservationists. This focus on preserving endangered animals extends to the zoo, as one-fifth of its exhibited species fall into this category.
Sustainability at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center
The Walter E. Washington Convention Center is a leader in environmental stewardship and sustainability initiatives, which include a color-coded recycling program, water efficiency, green product purchasing and more. The building boasts a long list of energy-reducing features, from low-emission glass to computerized HVAC systems. The center is Metro accessible (Green and Yellow lines) with a dedicated Mt. Vernon-7th St-Convention Center stop and immediately walkable to Shaw's booming restaurant scene and downtown's museums and nightlife, as well as the National Mall. Waste Minimization The “Know the Code” color-coded recycling and waste minimization program has helped the convention center take the lead on extensive recycling initiatives and effectively employing environmentally responsible products. Through a PepsiCo partnership, PepsiCo’s recycling “dream machines” were installed surrounding the center to encourage beverage container recycling rates. They are also installed surrounding the new Apple flagship store, located in the Carnegie Library. The convention center proudly recycles daily, utilizing single source haulers for recycling, carboard bailing and compost. Partnerships The convention center partners with many local sustainable businesses including DC Central Kitchen, Capital Area Food Bank and the District of Columbia Department of Public Works to recycle pallets left by decorators. An average of 50 pallets are picked up per month. Sustainability Initiatives Throughout the Convention Center All paper products throughout the convention center are made from 100 percent recycled fiber, ECOLOGO Certified (certified for reduced environmental impact) and compostable verified by an independent verification organization. This includes hand towels, seat covers, tissue rolls, napkins, food holders, utensils, cups and more. The center recently engaged a lighting consultant and is in the process of replacing all lights with LEDs, which has resulted in rebates from DC Sustainable Energy Unit for its commitment to sustainable upgrades. Events DC, the owner and manager of the convention center, has installed a solar film on large glass windows as well as a bird film on bridges that has reduced the number of injured birds by 100 percent. Chemical bottles used to clean the convention center are refilled using a self-diluting dispenser to prevent waste and spills. Chemicals are then distributed onto color-coded rags as opposed to being sprayed on surfaces or into the air. The center operates its Building Automation Systems (BAS) heating, ventilation and air condition (HVAC) in “economy” mode whenever possible to utilize outside air for free cooling or heating. Operating the building-wide lighting from a central processor also allows the center to use minimal emergency lighting during slow periods. The center continues to add to its sustainable initiatives. Events DC recently purchased seasonal boilers that are being installed to operate heating needs with far less British Thermal Unit (BTU) output during shifts in seasons. Seasonal chillers will be purchased in 2020. Find out how you can take your meeting, event or convention to the next level at the state-of-the-art Walter E. Washington Convention Center.
Sustainable Meetings
The nation's capital has built a path towards greener living and meetings with more LEED-certified buildings than any other city in the U.S. and an accessible environment where every government building is powered by renewable energy. With a goal to achieve 100 percent renewable electricity by 2032, the Clean Energy DC Omnibus Amendment Act, passed in December 2018, is some of the most aggressive, fast-acting climate change legislation in the U.S. Read on to learn how DC has become a leader in sustainability, helping its businesses reduce their carbon footprints and sharing a common vision for a sustainable planet. Connect with Destination DC staff, submit a meetings RFP or learn more about sustainable meetings and conventions in our sustainability white paper. Accolades #2 U.S. city with the most ENERGY STAR certified buildings (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), 2022) #3 Greenest City (WalletHub, 2022) 1st LEED Platinum City in the World (U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), 2017) More LEED-certified buildings than any other city in the U.S. (USGBC, 2022) #3 among North American cities for sustainability (Corporate Knights, 2022) #10 for Greenest Cities in the world and #1 among cities in North America (Resonance, 2022) Access Seven universities with significant credentials in sustainability both in terms of courses offered and in terms of a cross-department and connections to industry and key policy institutes. More than 50 associations, policy groups and advocacy organizations in the metro area focused on sustainability. U.S. Green Building Council (creator of LEED) is headquartered in DC. The Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) is the leading authority on energy and environmental issues affecting Washington, DC and employs approximately 300 engineers, biologists, toxicologists, geologists and environmental specialists. Local Support The District of Columbia government is committed to sustainable practices affirmed by its commitment to the Paris Climate Agreement, and its course to meet its target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions 50% by 2032 and to become carbon neutral by 2050. The Clean Energy DC Omnibus Amendment Act aims for the city to adopt a Net Zero Energy building code by 2026, improve energy efficiency of existing buildings and reach 100% renewable electricity by 2032. The city has a growing fleet of electric buses (14) and public curbside chargers. DC hosts an annual Open Streets event where three miles of roads are closed to vehicular traffic and opened to pedestrians. Several roads have become pedestrian-only post-pandemic, including Beech Drive within Rock Creek Park. These efforts demonstrate how roads can be used as vibrant public space with minimal impact to traffic. Edit media The District has 78 miles of protected bike paths as of 2022. Washington, DC maintains all public trees. The urban forestry department sits within the transportation department and manages trees in parks, schools and public land. DC's urban tree canopy equals 38.7%, the city's goal is to reach 40% by 2032. Mayor Muriel E. Bowser is a member of the Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate & Energy. The Clean Energy DC Omnibus Amendment Act, passed in December 2018, was the nation's first 100 percent renewable energy bill and the most aggressive, fastest-acting climate change legislation in the country. Washington DC is part of the C40 initiative, a group of 96 cities worldwide dedicated to finding evidence-based and bold climate action solutions. The DC Green Bank is an innovative policy tool that will use public purpose funding to attract private investment and finds solutions that prioritize making the clean economy inclusive and affordable for residents, businesses and communities. DC Green Bank focuses it investments on solar energy, greener and more efficient buildings, infrastructure resilience and transportation electrification. Cities100 is an initiative shared by sustainability think tank Sustainia, C40 (a group of global mayors) and Danish philanthropic agency Realdania to find the 100 leading city solutions to climate change, three of which are from Washington, DC: DC introduced low-cost memberships as part of its bike-share program to ensure that healthy, green transport is widely available. DC applied Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) financing to a local affordable housing project, saving the property money as it promotes climate and energy equity. The largest thermal hydrolysis installation in the world helps DC produce bioenergy more efficiently while turning waste into a productive resource. Innovation Innovations have transformed the city into a living lab of sustainable policies and innovative technologies that seek to advance social, economic and environmental priorities that carry global relevance. Thirty domestic and international sustainable startups in the metro area such as Clean Choice Energy and Arcadia Power Potential Energy DC, is an incubator of 18 organizations dedicated to propelling energy and sustainability startups in the DC region. American Geophysical Union’s 62,000-square-foot headquarters is the first-ever net zero energy renovation of an existing building in DC. American University in Washington, DC is the first urban campus, the first research university and the largest higher education institution in the U.S. to achieve carbon neutrality. Discover the DC Sustainability Guide, your green travel resource for Washington, DC’s sustainable hotels, eco-friendly attractions, locally sourced food and more. Interested in learning more about Washington, DC as a leading destination for industry meetings? Connect with Destination DC staff for more information or read our sustainability white paper.
